Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Innovation

Supporting entrepreneurs and community innovators in Ypsilanti

Fostering Innovation & Entrepreneurship

Our Innovation pillar supports entrepreneurs, encourages creative problem-solving, and cultivates energy around innovative ideas for community improvement. From online businesses to fashion ventures, park cleanups to social enterprises, we believe every innovative idea deserves support and connection.

Through Good Social networking events, young entrepreneur marketplaces, and future pitch competitions, we're building a network of innovators who are making Ypsilanti better.

Monthly
Good Social Events
50+
Network Members
20+
Entrepreneurs Supported

Current Activities

Good Social Events

Monthly First Friday gatherings bringing together people in the social good network for connection, inspiration, and collaboration. A space for care providers, volunteers, and changemakers to network.

Entrepreneur Support

Networking and mentorship opportunities for entrepreneurs at any stage, from idea to established business.

Young Entrepreneur Marketplace

Opportunities for young entrepreneurs to showcase their products and services to the community.

Community Improvement Projects

Supporting innovative ideas that make Ypsilanti better, from environmental initiatives to neighborhood improvements.

Fundraising Support

Helping other nonprofits and community initiatives with fundraising efforts and resource connections.

Collaborative Partnerships

Cross-sector collaboration bringing together businesses, nonprofits, and community members for mutual alignment on community causes.

Coming Soon: Pitch Competitions

Investing in Community Innovation

We're planning to launch pitch competitions where entrepreneurs and innovators can present their ideas for community improvement and receive support to bring them to life.

Types of Ideas We'll Support:

  • Cleaning up parks and public spaces
  • Starting online businesses
  • Fashion and creative businesses
  • Community improvement initiatives
  • Social enterprises addressing local needs
  • Technology solutions for community challenges
  • Any innovative idea that benefits Ypsilanti

Winners will receive seed funding, mentorship, and connections to help turn their vision into reality.

Have an Innovative Idea?

Be the first to know when pitch competitions launch. Share your idea or sign up for updates.

Submit Your Idea

Your Impact

$50

Provides materials for an entrepreneur showcase

$250

Sponsors marketing and promotion for a Good Social event

$500

Provides a complete entrepreneur support package with mentoring

Get Involved

For Entrepreneurs

Whether you're just starting out or growing an existing business, we're here to support you.

  • Attend monthly Good Social events
  • Connect with mentors and advisors
  • Showcase your business at marketplaces
  • Apply for future pitch competitions
Connect With Us

Volunteer Opportunities

  • Good Social event hosting
  • Entrepreneur mentoring
  • Pitch competition judging
  • Resource connection and networking
  • Workshop facilitation
Volunteer Now

For Innovators

Have an idea to improve Ypsilanti? We want to hear it!

  • Community improvement projects
  • Environmental initiatives
  • Social enterprises
  • Technology solutions
  • Any innovative community idea
Share Your Idea

Invest in Community Innovation

Support entrepreneurs and innovators making Ypsilanti better